I'm looking to build the ultimate bass rod for flipping and pitching jig's and plastics. I want a 7' medium heavy with a fast action tip. The rod needs to hold 17# line with a lure weight 1/4-3/4. I want it to be very lite yet very durable. I have picked out a set up but I would like to know the the opinion of experienced builders. I'm trying to stay around $150. I have picked out a g loomis gl2 mag bass with size 4 micro guides, eva grips I plan to turn myself and a pac bay minima seat. I would like to hear everyones opinion on this and why.

I see nothing wrong. For the ultimate blank for your money I think one of the Swampland blanks would be a bit better choice.

Your line class is a bit lighter than we use in Florida ... but we have tons of duck weed, pads, etc. to contend with. I have built on a lot of GL2 blanks and really like the value. However, for the best balance of weight and durability ... my money would be on a St Croix SC3 blank.

BTW, be sure to double check the fit of the Minima reel seat with the intended reel. Not all reel seats properly fit all reels.

Stephen please consider the Castaway XP3 MB 844 blank for your specific need. The selection of guides will be determined by your goals for the build. There are several things to consider pertaining to the proper choice of seat and matching components.

For a personal contact please use the Contact Us option in the menu bar on the left side of the site.

[www.swamplandtackle.com]

I plan on using the new E7 reel. Bill I live in St. Bernard and plan to come check out the place.

We will welcome any evacuees frum "de parrish" in the Houma or the Baton Rouge locations. If you bring a plate of spagetti and meatballs from Rocky's we will give you a free reel seat!! Bring a gallon of fresh oysters and you may end up with a big surprise! Welcome sha and come see de micros!

wich location should I go to?

Use the Contact Us button on the web site and give us a call - orclick on my name on the above thread and send me an email.

IMHO, you will pay extra $$$ for a G. Loomis name on a blank. LOTS of great blanks out there that are better (lighter/more sensitive) for the same money spent to get the Loomis name on a blank. SCIIIs are great blanks and better than a GL2, probably better than a GL3 which is more money. Castaways and Batsons also come to mind. In my opinion (you asked) a GL2 is a very over-priced average rod that just happens to say "Loomis" on it. I have built on GL2s and GL3s and Lamiglas and St. Croix (among others) have got them beat hands down in thier respective price ranges.

Tend to agree with Adam on this one. Paying mostly for the Loomis name anymore. The Lamiglas LMB series or a St. Croix SC3 or SC4 would be more bang for the buck. Also maybe try one of the Batson Mag taper blanks. I have used other models of theirs and been very happy with them. I am building one on a Lami LMB 845 right now for the flipping/pitching thing though I use 50 lb. braid instead of mono for that. Anyway just my 2 cents.